Microsoft Security Essentials 4.0 Released

Version 4 of Microsoft Security Essentials was released Tuesday, and it comes with improved detection capabilities, automatic remediation functionality and a streamlined interface system.

Malware reporting is also receiving a facelift with the addition of Microsoft Active Protection Service. Previously called SpyNet, this service will automatically send a message to Microsoft on the nature of malware the moment it's discovered on a system.

According to software analysis firm OPSWAT, Microsoft's Security Essentials came in at second for North American antivirus market share with 14.92 percent -- less than two points below the top-used antivirus software from Symantec. This last quarter saw Security Essentials overtake AVG for that second slot.